“Shoot in the leg”: Ruto orders Kenyan police to curb protest vandalism

“Shoot in the Leg”: President Ruto Orders Police Crackdown Amid Protest Vandalism

As violent protests continue to rage across Kenya, President William Ruto has issued a controversial directive to police forces: shoot to incapacitate, not to kill, in a bid to curb vandalism and protect businesses.

The statement was made on Wednesday during the opening of a new police station, as Kenya grapples with one of its most serious political crises in recent years. Ruto instructed officers to “shoot in the leg” anyone caught vandalizing property or targeting infrastructure during the anti-government protests that have engulfed parts of the country.

“The destruction of private property, looting, and violence is not acceptable,” Ruto said firmly, adding that he would use “whatever means necessary” to restore order.

Deadly Toll and Mounting Tensions

The president’s remarks come after Monday’s Saba Saba protests, which marked the 35th anniversary of Kenya’s transition to multi-party democracy. What started as peaceful demonstrations evolved into violent clashes between police and protestors. According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, at least 31 people were killed, making it the deadliest day of the recent protests.

Police, however, reported only 11 fatalities, and over 500 arrests were made during the unrest, with accusations of excessive force and human rights violations directed at security forces.

Business Devastation in Nairobi

As tension spread through the capital, Nairobi, business owners were left to count their losses. Streets were littered with broken glass and burnt debris. Shops were looted and some torched, leaving behind scenes of destruction. Small-scale traders, many of whom were already grappling with rising costs, have now suffered another blow.

“We were barely making ends meet. Now my kiosk is gone,” said one local trader in Nairobi’s central business district.

The widespread vandalism and damage to public and private property has only deepened frustrations, pushing the government to adopt more hardline measures.

Public Reaction and Backlash

While Ruto’s directive to “shoot in the leg” is seen by his administration as a “non-lethal” deterrent, it has been sharply criticized by human rights groups and opposition leaders.

The United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) earlier expressed being “deeply troubled” by the rising death toll, and has called for an independent investigation into police conduct.

“Lethal force should never be the first response,” said OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani. “We urge the Kenyan government to uphold international standards on the use of force and ensure accountability.”

Why Are Kenyans Protesting?

The protests, which have drawn tens of thousands of young Kenyans to the streets, are driven by a mix of economic frustration, rising taxes, and accusations of corruption in Ruto’s government.

In 2024, the government introduced a controversial finance bill with steep tax hikes, sparking nationwide anger. The bill was eventually withdrawn, but public trust in the administration remains low.

The death of a popular blogger in police custody, followed by a police shooting during June 17 demonstrations, further fanned public outrage, fueling the latest wave of unrest.

“Ruto may control institutions, but he doesn’t have the people,” said political analyst Karuti Kanyinga.

Call for Dialogue

Despite the rising tension, civil society groups, religious leaders, and international bodies are urging the government to engage in dialogue with protest organizers rather than escalate force.

“The country needs healing, not more violence,” said a statement from the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops. “We urge restraint from both sides.”

Ruto has yet to announce any plans for dialogue, maintaining a firm stance that law and order must be restored first.

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